Systems diagnostics: The systems approach to molecular imaging

OBJECTIVE. Molecular imaging has emerged as a powerful technology that has already changed the practice of modern medicine. During this same period, the monumental genome project has sequenced man's entire genetic content. Now the postgenomic aim is to understand the dynamic interactions of the encoded components and their regulatory mechanisms. CONCLUSION. Molecular imaging is well positioned to play a major role in this massive effort as we move toward a comprehensive paradigm for assessing health and disease.